Edinburgh Napier University

The UK’s first dedicated incubator programme for entrepreneurs in the cycling and outdoor sectors has been hailed a success by its participants.

20 people completed the First Tracks course, which was based in the South of Scotland and designed to help new start-ups or existing businesses to develop a new product or service.

It combined expert business guidance with industry-specific insights to help participants bring their ideas to life.

The success of the first programme means there are now plans being developed to bring First Tracks back in 2026 by organisers Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS), South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and Bright Red Triangle, Edinburgh Napier University’s hub for enterprise practice.

Programme highlights included a session with Mike Parsons, outdoor gear expert and the founder of Karrimor and OMM brands, as well as a Meet the Mentor session involving highly respected business and industry experts.

Topics covered by First Tracks included cycling focused branding, gravel riding trends through to regulation and compliance, helping participants to take forward their innovate business ideas and new products.

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, females made up almost half the First Tracks participants, building on the success of the Women in the Cycling Industry event which DMBinS and SOSE supported last year.

One of the First Tracks participants, Ruth Sutherland of Lauder argi-tourism business Hillhouse, said: “Joining First Tracks was a brilliant move for us.

“We started the course with a thousand ideas for our business but no plan.

“Eight weeks later, we have focussed our thinking to the point that we now have a clear plan to take us right through to launch. It has been a real turning point for our new venture.”

Another First Track entrepreneur, Sue Hodgson, who is based in Dumfries & Galloway, added: “My goal is to improve the safety and style of bicycle accessories and my project took a giant leap forward thanks to the help of the First Tracks.”

Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of SOSE, added: “First Tracks is another example of SOSE’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, which for the first time is in the cycling and outdoor sectors.

“First Tracks also aligns with our work on the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre and a commitment to work with partners to deliver programmes of support ahead of the Centre opening.

“Looking ahead, we will be rolling out more innovative ways to support entrepreneurs and business in this sector.”

Ed Ibbetson, DMBinS Development Co-ordinator for the Scottish Borders, said: “The design and delivery of First Tracks enabled us to support businesses taking their first steps into the mountain biking and outdoors sectors, and to share some of the extensive collective knowledge from ourselves, and our collaborative partners and guest speakers.   

“We’ve already seen our entrepreneurs taking great strides forward with their new businesses and we look forward to providing ongoing support ahead of the next round of First Tracks for a fresh cohort.”

Pete McLean, Enterprise Manager at Bright Red Triangle, said: “It has been fantastic to deliver the First Tracks programme alongside SOSE and DMBinS.

“Working with innovative businesses from across the UK who are shaping the future of cycling and outdoor experiences has been truly inspiring.

“The energy, creativity, and collaboration throughout the programme has been a real highlight – and we’re proud to continue supporting many of these businesses on their journey.”